DIOXIDE Meaning and
Definition
-
Dioxide refers to a chemical compound that is formed when two oxygen atoms are chemically bound to another element or compound. The term specifically indicates the presence of two oxygen (O2) atoms in the chemical formula. The prefix "di-" signifies the numeral "two" in the compound.
Dioxides are commonly found in nature and are vital components in various chemical reactions and organic molecules. They can be formed through natural processes such as combustion or through human activities like manufacturing and industrial processes. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the most prevalent and well-known examples of a dioxide. It is produced by living organisms during respiration and is also a byproduct of burning fossil fuels.
Other familiar examples of dioxides include sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and silicon dioxide (SiO2). Sulfur dioxide is released into the atmosphere as a result of volcanic eruptions and industrial activities, and it plays a significant role in air pollution. Nitrogen dioxide is primarily generated through the combustion of fossil fuels and contributes to the formation of smog. Silicon dioxide, also commonly known as silica, is a naturally occurring compound found in various minerals and makes up a significant portion of the Earth's crust.
Overall, dioxide is a chemical term used to describe a compound consisting of two oxygen atoms bound to another element or compound. The presence of dioxide compounds is widespread in both natural and human-made environments, having important implications in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and environmental sciences.
-
A chemical compound containing two atoms of oxygen to one of the metallic element.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Top Common Misspellings for DIOXIDE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DIOXIDE
Etymology of DIOXIDE
The word "dioxide" is derived from two parts: "di-" and "-oxide".
The prefix "di-" comes from the Greek word "di", meaning "two" or "twice". It is often used to indicate that there are two of something.
The suffix "-oxide" comes from the Latin word "oxidum" and the Greek word "oxýs", which both mean "sharp" or "acid". In ancient times, chemical compounds were often classified as either acidic or basic. The term "oxide" referred to a compound that combined with oxygen, typically forming an acidic or acidic-like substance.
Therefore, "dioxide" combines the prefix "di-" to indicate two and the suffix "-oxide" to denote a compound that contains oxygen, resulting in a word that represents a chemical with two oxygen atoms.
Similar spelling words for DIOXIDE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
